Jo Craddock is heading home to Waimauku a happy woman, with two show hunter of the year titles in the truck.

A former international swimmer, Craddock took up riding as an adult, buying her superstar Dawn just two years ago from Emma Buckingham.

Yesterday that very special partnership delivered, with victory in the Prydes EasiFeed Horse Show Hunter of the Year and Amateur Show Hunter of the Year title classes.

“It is still sinking in,” said Craddock. “I am feeling a bit overwhelmed to be honest.”

But the two headed into HOY in good form.

“She has been super consistent and been doing an amazing job for me this season,” said the mum of three who is trained by Tors Rattray. “We have had some good success this season and really are best friends.”

The “gorgeous” chestnut mare, who is by Dream Boy out of Antipodes, always gives her best for her doting rider.

“She turns her head to me every time before we go into the ring. We are really connected and she tries her little heart out every time.”

Craddock admits she was extremely nervous heading into the call back for the amateur title.

“I felt I was going to vomit! When we pulled it off it was like ‘holy cow’, so we went into the open a little more relaxed. She jumps well when the height goes up and it was a real fun ride. There was a bit of pressure but we had a great round and were lucky to win it.”

Craddock bought her first horse when she hung up her swimming goggles.

“I always wanted a horse but it wasn’t until I retired from my swimming career that it happened.”
Her swimming, which included New Zealand titles, Oceania Champs and World University Games, now seems like a lifetime ago.

“I have a different focus now and just love my horses.”

It helps that she shares that love with her 12-year-old daughter Jaimie, who with Minks placed fourth in the AHD Category A Pony Show Hunter of the Year.